Millburn — Paper Mill Playhouse wants to make going to the theater as easy as going to the gym, so it's offering a membership plan that allows patrons to show up whenever they want.

"Stage Pass" is a monthly membership program that works like a gym or Netflix account. For $20 a month, a pass holder gains unlimited admission to the theater.

"It's a low-cost entry," Paper Mill managing director Todd Schmidt said. "It's a way to get people where price may be a determining factor."

The theater is working with local nonprofits to get the program started. The National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and the Education Foundation of Millburn-Short Hills are selling passes as a fundraiser, with each charity keeping a portion of the initial fee.

"They make money, they help us spread the word, and we're reaching different audiences," Schmidt said about the partnerships.

A minimum commitment of six months is required. The pass is good for one ticket per performance for any mainstage or children's show. Stage Pass tickets can be reserved in advance, but tickets must be picked up in person. Tickets are subject to availability. Read the terms and conditions here.

The membership idea was introduced in 2009 by Seattle's A Contemporary Theatre, and it has been adopted by other performance groups since. Many organizations view it as a substitute for regular subscriptions. But Schmidt said Paper Mill will use it to supplement its ranks.

"This is another tool," he said. "We're still selling subscriptions for this year, getting new subscribers. This is completely different."